Wilderness First Aid Certification

This two-day course immerses participants in basic wilderness medicine procedures, preparing individuals to take immediate action when an outdoor activity doesn't go as planned and 911 responders are hours away. Time is split between interactive classroom sessions and hands-on field scenarios to prepare participants and help them quickly develop basic back country medical care skills. The course focus is on patient assessment, stabilization and emergency treatment of issues such as hypothermia and snakebites, as well as understanding of when and how to attempt evacuation. Participants will emerge capable of calmly responding to a wide variety of emergency situations.

Participants will need to be prepared to be outside approximately half of the training hours, regardless of weather conditions unless hazardous (storms or extreme heat or cold). Participants should bring whatever items they commonly carry on their persons in the performance of their duties, as improvisational concepts are an important aspect of this course, and participants should also be equipped with a headlamp for the evening exercise. All participants will need to be dressed in clothing that can be stained and/or damaged, as the program is heavily hands on, and moulage will be used to promote training authenticity.

All program supplies and textbooks (which become property of the participants) are provided by Ozark Safety and Rescue Educators (OSRE) as part of the program cost. Successful completion of the entire program will result in a two year nationally recognized certification.

There are two options for this course:

• Wilderness First Aid only - September 7-8. The first day is from 8:30am-8:00pm; the second day is from 8:30am-5:00pm. $245 per person and includes course, two-year certification upon completion of course, six meals and overnight lodging.

• CPR/AED & Wilderness First Aid combined - September 6-8. Three-hour CPR/AED course begins September 6th at 6pm. $300 per person and includes both courses, two-year certifications upon completion of both courses, seven meals and two nights of overnight lodging.

Registration is required at least one week in advance. No refunds or transfers to other programs after August 23rd.